Navigating Virginia Probate: Your Essential Guide to Estate Administration When a loved one passes away, grief is overwhelming. Adding to that burden is the often-complex legal process of settling their estate, known as probate. In Virginia, probate ensures that the deceased's debts are paid and assets are distributed according to their will or, if there's no will, according to state law. This guide breaks down the Virginia probate process, offering practical advice, detailing potential costs, and highlighting common pitfalls to help you navigate this challenging time. What is Probate and When is it Necessary in Virginia? Probate is the court-supervised process of validating a will, appointing an executor (if there's a will) or an administrator (if there isn't), identifying and inventorying the deceased's assets, paying debts and taxes, and finally distributing the remaining assets to the rightful beneficiaries or heirs. In Virginia, this proces...